The Yukon can almost be considered a throwback these days. To see a large, truck-based SUV roaming the streets anymore is like stepping back in time to a place when gas prices were low(er) and the term crossover referred to a sick basketball move. Well, as small a percentage as large SUV sales take up in the present, people still need- or want- space. And one of the best examples of space done right is the GMC Yukon. And hey, it’s even got a hybrid model. So don’t call it a relic just yet.
The 2012 Yukon keeps its upscale tradition alive, thanks to a variety of details. Take a look. If you’re ready to buy a new Yukon, you can get offers on CarWoo! today.
GMC Yukon Trims and Features
Drivers can choose between SLE, SLT, and top trim Denali Yukon models- as well as XL and Hybrid versions of each. The XL Yukon trims expand for even more interior space than regular models (hence the XL), and give owners almost 10,000 pounds worth of tow capacity. Yukon Hybrids are a good alternative if you simply cannot do a crossover, and will yield 21 combined MPG.
Expect a strong but smooth performance from any Yukon trim, along with an upscale interior that is hard to beat in the full-size SUV class, particularly with the Denali lineup.
GMC Yukon Performance
Every Yukon is available in either rear or all-wheel drive. SLE and SLT Yukons get their go from a 5.3 liter V8 capable of 320 horsepower and 335 lb.-ft. of torque. GMC has fitted these trims with a 6-speed automatic transmission. If you go with the all-wheel drive Yukon, you get a single speed transfer case standard, with the option for a two-speed transfer case.
Denali Yukons receive a 6.2 liter V8 that produces 403 horsepower and 417 lb.-ft. The Denali features a 6-speed auto with Driver Shift Control, allowing you to manually select gears for different driving conditions.
Properly equipped with the right model, Yukon is capable of towing 8,500 pounds.
GMC Yukon Fuel Economy
GMC Yukon 2-wheel drive models will get 15/21/17 (city/highway/combined) MPG with either 2 or 4-wheel drive. The Yukon Denali stands at 14/18/16 with 2-wheel drive, and drops to 13/18/15 for all-wheel.
GMC Yukon Interior Highlights
Obviously, size is king here. If you go with the optional front bench seat on the SLE Yukon, you’ll have room for 9 passengers; otherwise it’s 7 or 8 depending on the 2nd row setup. SLT and Denali trims have the option for 60/40 split bench seats or captain’s chairs in the middle. 3rd row seating is the real downside, with limited space and an awkward style for handling cargo: the seats don’t fold down, so you must remove them completely to utilize cargo space. Look for 16.9 cubic feet for storage with all seats in place, 60.3 cubes with the 3rd row out, and an impressive 108.9 with the 2nd row folded.
Those who could possibly need more space can also look into the Yukon XL trims, which are capable of hauling up to 137.4 cubic feet of stuff.
GMC Yukon Safety
Yukon standards include 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with brake assist, stability control, side curtain airbags, and OnStar emergency services. Extras include a rearview camera and Parking Assist (optional on SLE and standard for SLT and Denali), and blind spot alert system- unavailable on SLE, but optional for SLT and standard again on Denali. Yukon receives 4/5 stars overall on the government crash tests, with 5/5 scores for front and side collisions, and 3/5 for rollovers.
Yukon’s Bottom Line
Whatever your pick, the Yukon lineup won’t disappoint. If a smaller crossover has been crossed off the list, you’ll be happy to know that the Yukon is waiting to be filled up and driven. And years of refinement have made the size almost an afterthought. Break out the aged wine and grab your 2012 GMC Yukon right now- because you can do that at Carwoo.
